My (current) Top 6 Tenkara Rods #tenkara

Disclaimer: None of the rods on this list are in collaboration with the companies that make them. I am an affiliate with two brands but this list is inspired by my personal experience and not to compare with rods out there I have yet to fish. This includes JDM Tenkara rods.

It is important that I premise this topic that I do NOT think these are the best 6 tenkara rods in existence but merely what I have found to be the best for my needs after fishing and owning near 30 rods. To make these decisions, I concluded the following:

1. Rods that were not Japanese imported. Easily replaced parts and quick shipping.
2. Rods can catch the average small stream trout in various conditions
3. Rod aesthetics and design
4. Had desirable actions based on industry standards.

Rods:
1. DRAGONtail Mizuchi
2. Seiyu Therapy 33
3. Wasatch Tenkara Rods Baby Rodzilla
4. Tenkara USA Ukiyo
5. DRAGONtail Rangarok
6. DRAGONtail Nirvana Kokoro 360

Links:
USE CODE SKIDDY10 in the checkout for 10% off

[skiddyfishing]

It’s important to note that this video was never meant to compete against the JDM or upper premium rod market. My content is created for newer to intermediate tenkara anglers and my individual evolution into this amazing hobby. Those working on a budget will find great rods on this list but make not mistake, the list of rods in the premium category are much longer respectfully.


A notable correction is that the Kokoro 360 is really a 6:4 but THE softest 6:4 I have ever fished. Did your rod make the top 6?

[LZTenkara]

The Kokoro 360 has rapidly become my favorite rod. The effortless casting of dry/wet flies is sublime. Really well done Dragontail. Nice review Skiddy of your top rods!

[tntepicadventures]

I love your enthusiasm and dedication to all the details about these rods! You gave some great insight and I think my next rod will be the Kokoro. I debating between that and the Ragnarok. I want a different 13' rod besides my Hydra.

[garrydurfey]

Well, your are not helping my addiction tendencies at all. I am a total novice but he little I have fished a Tenkara rod I have truly enjoyed it. One thing I am curious about, one of my zoom rods cast very differently at the different lengths. Again, as a beginner, I was surprised I felt so much difference. Maybe as I fish these rods more I will learn to adjust. Just wondering if you have had a better feel at a particular length in the zoom rods you use. I do like the idea of the zoom rod. Streams can change character very quickly.

[louiecruzado]

Great video… This is my first season fishing Tenkara, and I’ve been only using Tenkara. After doing the homework the Dragontail Muzuchi was my choice. I have absolutely love this rod, caught hundreds fish from 3 inches to 19 inches using every way to catch fish. Dry dropper, nymphs, bead head and Kebari flies. I absolutely have use all three length and have found them great. I also mainly use the second and third lengths more, and also agree with the stiffness feeling good. I do want to get the softer tips to try out. Spot on with this rod being perfect for those 9-13 inch fish. I’m ready to get a second rod for those smaller creeks & fish as well. Thanks for vids and keep ‘em coming!

[MostlyTenkara]

You gotta try the Oni rods. The Type-1 will have you falling in love with 400cm. And the Coco 290 is as good as you’ve heard.

[kellywalker]

Bring that Therapy 33 I want to try it

[Dustyfor]

Great video and very informative. I bought a Baby Rodzilla and absolutely love it. Have you ever tried a Zen Suzume before? That was my first small stream rod and I still use it in some of the small CO streams. Keep the great content coming!

[jblocker]

Nice video, thanks for sharing. I have the Mizuchi and one thing that stands out with this rod is the non-swivel lillian. I thought it would give me troubles but I find it easier to fight larger fish compared to my other rods. The balance is really nice too for a zoom rod.

[Pmmapping]

Thank you for making the excellent video! I watched your review of the Dragontail Talon mini. How does the Talon compare to UKIYO?